The Cleveland Cavaliers lost a 132-120 matchup versus the Sacramento Kings on Monday night. Sacramento was led by their four 20-point scorers, Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, De’Aaron Fox and Kevin Huerter. Sabonis managed a near-triple double with 23 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists, shooting an incredibly efficient 80% from the field.
Cleveland’s defensive struggles continue against Sacramento as the Cavaliers could only watch as the Kings shot a phenomenal 59% from the field as a team. The Cavaliers did manage to post an impressive offensive outing with seven players scoring in double figures.
Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell led the way for Cleveland offensively. Mobley posted a 16-point, 12-rebound double-double, with an eye-popping seven offensive rebounds. Mitchell managed a 22-point night with five assists.
Cleveland has started a disappointing 4-6 through their first 10 games, as the team is working to get healthy. The Cavaliers’ defensive woes play a large part in their less-than-impressive start. The team currently sits at 19th in defensive rating. They have given up at least 110 points in six of their 10 contests.
Cleveland could look to pick up some momentum over their next two games against young teams in Portland and Detroit. The Cavaliers wrap up a four-game road trip versus the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night, before returning home on Friday to play the Detroit Pistons.
The Cavaliers currently sit in 11th place in the Eastern Conference. They will need to gain some traction before tough upcoming matchups versus the Nuggets on 11/19 and the 76ers on 11/21.